College hosts Florida students for a sustainable business practices collaboration
Business students from America spent a week at Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) for an enriching collaboration centred on sustainable business practices.
A group of nine students from Hillsborough Community College (HCC) in Tampa Bay, Florida travelled to Burton as part of a visit to the UK to learn more about international business culture and practice.
The group joined BSDC’s Level 3 Business students in lessons throughout the week. Home and visiting students combined were challenged to develop ideas and deliver presentations aimed at offering innovative sustainable business solutions for Mercer Farming - a family run business, balancing profitable farming in harmony with the environment.
This task not only encouraged creativity but also prompted students to reflect on Mercer Farming's commendable sustainability efforts already in place.
Devo Opela, a student from HCC, said: “I have been in awe of the sustainability practices and the encouragement in your society to be more sustainable and look after one another and the planet. It is something I will always take away with me.”
The week proved to be an immersive experience filled with vibrant collaboration and valuable networking opportunities. Students from different backgrounds and disciplines worked together, driven by a shared goal - to pave the way for a more sustainable world for generations to come.
Katen Amin DBA, Business Professor at Hillsborough Community College (HCC), said: “The engagement between the BSDC and HCC students was amazing. They all worked brilliantly together on developing recommendations for the Mercer Farm family, whilst learning so much about each other’s culture. The experience, knowledge and friendships created this week will last a lifetime.”
Craig Goldsmith, Business and Accounting curriculum team leader at BSDC, added: “Welcoming students and staff from Hillsborough Community College has been a great experience for all students and staff involved.
"This visit provided a valuable platform for our students to exchange ideas that widen cultural horizons and nurture vital business skills for the global workplace, with a core focus around sustainable business.”
